What is the purpose of using insulators in electrical systems?

Insulators are vital components in electrical systems, primarily serving to prevent the unwanted flow of electricity. They do this by providing a barrier that restricts the passage of electrical current between conductive materials, ensuring that electricity flows only where intended. This property not only protects electrical equipment from unintended short circuits but also safeguards individuals from electrical shock.

In practical terms, insulators are used extensively around wires and cables to keep the current contained within the conductive path. For instance, the plastic or rubber coating on electrical wires acts as an insulator, allowing safe handling and reducing the risk of accidental contact with live wires.

While it is accurate to say that some insulators can increase electrical resistance, that characteristic is a secondary aspect of their primary function, which is to prevent the flow of electricity under normal operational conditions. Enhancing electromagnetic fields or improving signal quality does not properly align with the primary role of insulators, as these aspects typically involve the design and material properties of conductors rather than insulators.